Ferrari will bring a number of updates to its package at the Formula 1 Italian GP, including an ADUO-permitted upgrade on its engine, plus aerodynamic updates and track-specific parts.
Having been found to be more than 4% behind the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities [ADUO] benchmark set by Red Bull’s power unit, the Italian team has been awarded two upgrades this season – one of which, according to Motorsport.com, it has decided to use in Monza.
Updates to the engine include a revised combustion chamber and turbocharger, which is expected to bring an increase of 15 horsepower to halve the gap to Mercedes’ unit (which is considered the best all-round package). A new fuel developed by Shell should also bring a performance boost.
This will be the second ADUO-permitted upgrade Ferrari brings to its engine; the first was introduced at the Austrian Grand Prix in June.
The Scuderia will also bring a revised version of its Macarena rear wing, which is expected to be more aerodynamically efficient, as well as a potentially tweaked variant of its blown exhaust.
More cosmetically, Ferrari’s cars will run a special livery at Monza to pay tribute to seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, partnered by one-off race suits worn by Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
Can Ferrari reinvigorate title challenge in Monza?
Monza presents an opportunity for Ferrari to begin its title charge after recent lacklustre performances. Current championship leader Mercedes has confirmed Kimi Antonelli will serve a back-of-the-grid penalty after deciding to run a new power unit.
George Russell will not serve a penalty in Monza, but is speculated to do so in Baku, where track characteristics are similar. The German outfit will aim to hold Ferrari back with one driver at the front.
Heading into Monza, Ferrari sits second in the constructors’ standings, trailing Mercedes by 87 points. Lewis Hamilton currently leads the Scuderia in points, with 183 – tied with Russell and 59 behind championship leader Antonelli.
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